Projected lottery pick Shabazz Muhammad had an interesting performance at the 2013 NBA Draft Scouting Combine on Thursday in Chicago, struggling at times but displaying maximum effort at others (via @DraftExpress):

Shabazz Muhammad really struggling so far. Shots not falling and couldn't create much in the one on ones. Did compete defensively, though.

Overall, Muhammad's performance at the combine on Thursday was lackluster. He has to prove he can pull up and score consistently off the dribble, which is something he didn't do often at UCLA.

Muhammad's struggles also beg the following question: What does he have to gain by participating in the combine?

With so many top talents sitting out this week, it's surprising that a projected lottery pick like Muhammad would risk hurting his stock by showing up. Kudos for the effort, but it's unclear if it will be worth it in the end.

Draft Projection

While Muhammad was seen as a lottery pick coming into the combine, his performance may have hurt his stock. Just ask Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix:

Don't be surprised to see Shabazz Muhammad start to plummet on draft boards. Hearing concerns about his mechanics and one dimensional play

In his latest mock draft, ESPN's Chad Ford (membership required) has Muhammad going No. 7 overall to the Detroit Pistons, a team in need of a scoring punch.

There's a good chance Muhammad will slide in mock drafts around the web following the combine, but he should still be a solid bet to go somewhere in the lottery. He's still one of the top scorers coming out this summer and has a winning attitude that scouts and coaches will love.